5 Application Tips from Michigan Ross
The University of Michigan Ross School of Business and Soojin Kwon, its director of MBA admissions and financial aid, have a few tips for candidates preparing their package for Round 2.
No matter which round you apply in, make sure you follow this advice to ensure your application is Ross-ready.
Tip #1:
Only apply when your application is at its strongest. While many applicants are leaning toward submitting in the first round, if your GMAT score isn't where you'd like it to be and you think you can improve it in time for Round 2, then don't rush for Round 1.
Says Soojin: "The best choice is to apply in the round when your application is the best it can be, including the GMAT score."
Tip #2:
The best way to approach the "What are you most proud of?" essay is by presenting an authentic storynot one you think is most impressive. Actually, the Why is more important than the What.
Says Soojin: "It should be the answer youd share with a close friend, not with an 'admissions committee.'
Tip #3:
Just because other schools ask for two letters of recommendation doesn't mean you should go ahead an submit an extra one to Ross as well. When the school asks for one recommendation letter, that's how many they want to see.
Says Soojin: "We only want one letter ... preferably from your current direct supervisor. If you cant ask your current supervisor, ask the one just prior to the current one, and be sure to briefly explain why you didnt ask your current supervisor."
Tip #4:
The Team Exercise may be optional, but not doing it would be a mistake. Not only will the experience help you decide whether Ross is a good fit for you; it also provides the admissions team with crucial information about your communication and interpersonal skills, the soft skills recruiters want to see in their MBA hires.
Says Soojin: "If you come to campus for your interview ... Youll meet potential classmates (even potential roommates), attend a class or conference with current MBAs, meet folks affiliated with our Centers and Institutes, and engage in an optional post-interview Q&A session with the AdComm and students."
Tip #5:
Applicants need to spend more time on their resumes. The essays aren't the only part you have control over, and your MBA resume is an important indicator of how you present yourself.
Says Soojin: "Its the first thing we look at when we open an app, so its the 'first-impression-maker.' Its your opportunity to tell us where youve been, what youve accomplished, how youve made an impact and what youre interested in."
Best of luck to all Round 2 applicants to Michigan Ross!
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